Over 500 sign Canada petition

MBABANE – Over 500 people have signed a petition via change. org, which was compiled by the Swazi- Canadian diaspora.

The petition reads that the Swazi- Canadian diaspora stands in solidarity with Eswatini and seeks to bring awareness to the current civil unrest resulting in a humanitarian crisis. The petition urged the Canadian Government to speak out against the ongoing violence that authorities are allegedly inflicting on the citizens and support the pro- democracy movement.

It went on to highlight that following a universal call for democratic change by Eswatini’s disenfranchised students and youth, King Mswati III had allegedly responded by suppressing political dissent where it is alleged 70 civilians were killed by State security forces though this is yet to be confirmed by all parties concerned.

It further read that a humanitarian crisis was also an issue which involved a food crisis, shortages of medical supplies as well as gender- based violence.

According to the Swazi- Canadian diaspora from last year until present in the advent of the COVID- 19 pandemic, Eswatini had experienced growing levels of violence and political brutality. This prompted three Members of Parliament to launch the call for democratic change, emphasising the need for a democratically elected government. It highlighted that on June 20, 2021 the youth of Eswatini delivered petitions across the country which highlighted the following;

Fundamental gaps in service delivery.

A high youth unemployment rate at 43.7 per cent. High levels of inequality.

Emphasised the call for democratic change.

The Swazi- Canadian di aspora demanded t he following:

Restoring peace and stability in the country Assisting in the launch of a mediated political dialogue that will result in a transitional government and ultimately, multi- party democracy.

Mobilising humanitarian aid support t o support the citizens who continue to be impacted by the civil unrest.

Opening our borders t o emaSwati f l eeing f rom danger and seeking asylum.

Launching a boycott against international corporations whose business i nterests are protected by the King.

The signing of the petition also took place in Vancouver, Canada during the African Descent Festival which took place recently.